Cotton Fever Guide: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Cotton fever may be caused by the cotton that’s used to filter IV drugs, such as heroin. Cotton fever is an unpleasant but typically short-lived condition that occurs when bacteria or endotoxins enter the bloodstream during injection. If you believe you have cotton fever, stay calm—while the symptoms can be intense, they are usually temporary. Since fever and sweating can lead to dehydration, medical professionals may administer saline or electrolyte solutions to help rehydrate your body quickly and stabilize your condition. In the next section, we’ll discuss the best ways to treat cotton fever and alleviate symptoms as quickly as possible.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce fever, alleviate pain, and reduce inflammation. Additionally, the use of unsterile equipment and practices can increase the risk of blood-borne infections, such as HIV and hepatitis. These can include respiratory issues, cardiovascular complications, liver damage, and immunosuppression.

Cotton fever does not always occur when using cotton to filter heroin or another IV drug. Additionally, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires insurance companies to provide coverage for addiction treatments in Texas. Reach out to learn more about the various aspects of our residential treatment program and understand the importance of this modality in promoting lasting recovery and a brighter future. The body may also eliminate substances through sweat, urine, and breath. During detoxification, the body works to metabolize and eliminate the toxins accumulated from prolonged substance abuse.

Hospitalization (Only in Severe Cases)

While there is no definitive test for cotton fever, its rapid onset following intravenous drug use, combined with normal lab findings, often points to the diagnosis. For this reason, healthcare providers, especially those in emergency departments, always advise patients to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or prolonged. If you or someone you love is dealing with symptoms of cotton fever, remember that medical professionals can help confirm a diagnosis.

Treatment

While cotton fever can be scary—especially for someone new to these symptoms—most cases clear up on their own with proper rest and hydration. Because they mimic bacterial infection (like sepsis), cotton fever can be frightening but is generally self-limiting. These symptoms typically start within 20 to 60 minutes after injection and subside within 6 to 48 hours.

I have no opinion on the accuracy of this material and make no recommendations regarding cotton fever. There are some studies available that examine cotton fever, but the information is limited. The validity of this condition is not widely accepted in the medical community and has not been confirmed by scientific studies or medical research. Under most circumstances, cotton fever is quite benign, but it is possible for it to turn into something much more serious, like pneumonia. These symptoms normally occur immediately following an injection, but there are reports of lags of up to an hour in length.

What are the Symptoms of Cotton Fever?

Detoxification, commonly known as detox, refers to the physiological process of eliminating harmful substances from the body. Let us help you safely detox for harmful substances and start your journey to a healthier future. At Alamo Behavioral Health our mission is to offer readers the most precise and up-to-date information on addiction and behavioral health as possible. Sterile, medical-grade filters (such as wheel filters or micron filters) are available through some harm-reduction programs and syringe exchanges.

Providing resources for support and information is crucial for those seeking help or wanting to learn more about cotton fever. Educating others about cotton fever and providing resources for support and information are vital steps in preventing and addressing this condition. This helps in managing the symptoms effectively and promotes a speedy recovery. It is crucial to follow the healthcare provider’s advice and complete the prescribed course of treatment.

Many people use small pieces of cotton as filters when preparing drugs for injection.
You can get cotton fever any number of times.
Find the treatment and support programs you need to start your recovery journey at Alamo Behavioral Health.

Treatment and Recovery

In this article, we’ll clarify cotton fever, its signs, and ways to prevent and manage it. Perhaps you’re concerned about a loved one who has mentioned feeling feverish and unwell after injecting drugs. One possible complication of cotton fever is endocarditis, inflammation in the heart’s inner lining caused by bacteria or fungi. While the condition is usually self-limiting, it’s usually a sign that drug use has gotten uncontrollable and potentially dangerous. This may be inpatient or outpatient treatment, but often includes group counseling, talk therapy, behavioral therapies, support groups, and other evidence-based care. Cotton fever doesn’t usually happen with occasional IV drug use, so experiencing it may indicate that your drug abuse or addiction has progressed.

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Cotton fever can cause a serious condition known as endocarditis, an infection of the inner heart lining, which can be fatal. You can get cotton fever any number of times. Cotton fever and sepsis are two separate medical conditions. This may include inpatient treatment, detox services, outpatient treatment, and aftercare support.

Confusion continues to exist as outdated or inaccurate definitions of the condition, including its causes, remain widespread, especially among intravenous drug users, who are likely to self-diagnose based on local common knowledge.
IV drugs used for medical purposes are almost exclusively used in hospitals, where patients are closely monitored.
However, the presence of cotton fever could indicate a more serious condition, such as substance use disorder, that does require treatment.

Signs and symptoms

It’s worth noting that cotton fever is not exclusive to a specific type of drug or drug user. These contaminants can be present in the cotton filters or other materials used to prepare and administer drugs. The primary cause of cotton fever is the introduction of bacteria or endotoxins into the bloodstream through drug injection. It is important for parents to be aware of this condition in order to recognize the symptoms and seek appropriate medical help for their children. If you experience recurrent episodes of cotton fever, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.

Can I get cotton fever from smoking drugs?

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms after injecting drugs, understanding cotton fever can offer relief and guidance on when to seek medical attention. To prevent cotton fever, the best thing to do is to stop using illicit drugs and seek treatment if you suspect an addiction. Cotton fever is a medical condition mimicking an infection often occurring with intravenous (IV) drugs filtered through cotton fibers.

Injecting a drug can lead to repeated use to maintain the high, building dependence and addiction. Some common IV drugs include heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Intravenous drugs, or IV drugs, are drugs that are injected into a vein instead of ingested, snorted, or smoked. However, some cases of cotton fever have occurred without cotton as a filter. It typically has symptoms like a rapid heart rate and a fever, though no infection exists. If symptoms do occur, focus on hydration, rest, and fever management while monitoring for any signs of complications.

Cotton fever is different from sepsis, but it can mimic the symptoms. Though mild, this toxin can end up in the drug and enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response. Once cotton particles are in the bloodstream, chemical reactions may trigger a fever and a general feeling of illness.

Bacterial Contaminants

In this case, a much smaller dose is needed than if the drug was used another way. cotton fever symptoms Verify your insurance today – treatment could be more affordable than you think. This is the best time of year to begin treatment.